- Robert Gould Shaw: The son of wealthy abolitionists, Shaw was appointed Colonel of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry. At the age of 25, he was one of the youngest colonels in the Civil War. Shaw led the regiment with courage and distinction and died during the assault on Fort Wagner.
- Frederick Douglass: A prominent abolitionist and orator, Douglass served as a recruiter and advisor to the regiment. He used his influence and connections to help fund and support the 54th Massachusetts Infantry.
- Martin Delany: A physician, writer, and abolitionist, Delany was one of the first African American commissioned officers in the United States Army. He served as a major in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry.
- William Carney: A sergeant in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry, Carney became the first African American recipient of the Medal of Honor. During the assault on Fort Wagner, he rescued and carried back the colors of the regiment, despite being wounded multiple times.
- Sergeant Major Lewis Douglass: The son of Frederick Douglass, Lewis Douglass served as a sergeant major in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry. He distinguished himself during combat at Fort Wagner and was later appointed by President Abraham Lincoln as the United States Marshal for the District of Columbia.
- Private John Henry Williams: A private in the 54th Massachusetts Infantry, Williams was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the assault on Fort Wagner. He was posthumously recognized for his bravery in rescuing his sergeant during combat.